PCP Abuse: diagnosis
Diagnosis of PCP abuse or dependence is often complicated by the fact that symptoms are variable. Most people who use PCP use other drugs; and PCP can be a contaminant in other street drugs or can itself be contaminated with other chemicals. PCP use is also found among people with psychiatric disorders. In many ways, PCP mimics the symptoms of schizophrenia.
The American Psychiatric Association recognizes two levels of PCP disorders: PCP dependence and PCP abuse. In addition, it recognizes seven other PCP-induced psychiatric disorders.
PCP dependence is characterized by a psychological dependence or craving for the drug, as well as withdrawal symptoms if it is discontinued. Although physical dependence has been shown in animal studies with suggestions that physical dependence is present in heavy human users, no human studies have confirmed this. Heavy users may take the drug several times a day. They continue to use it despite experiencing psychological or physical problems. People with psychiatric disorders are more likely to have bad side effects from PCP than those without psychiatric problems. Adverse effects of PCP dependence can continue for weeks after the drug is discontinued.
Individuals with PCP abuse use the drug less regularly than those with PCP dependence. They experience both physical and psychological symptoms of PCP intoxication and often are unable to meet the normal demands of society (work, school, family responsibilities). Because PCP use impairs judgment and increases aggressiveness, they often are involved in accidents while under the drug's influence.
Phencyclidine-induced disorders include:
- PCP intoxication with or without perceptual disturbances
- PCP intoxication delirium
- PCP-induced psychotic disorder
- PCP-induced mood disorder
- PCP-induced anxiety disorder
- PCP-induced disorders not otherwise specified
PCP intoxication and delirium are diagnosed by a history of recent PCP use, behavioural changes and physical changes that are not accounted for by any other substance use, medical condition, or psychiatric condition. PCP is present in the blood and urine. With PCP intoxication, a patient may have hallucinations but be aware that these are caused by PCP use.
PCP delirium is diagnosed when a patient exhibits muddled thinking, hostility, bouts of hyperactivity and aggressiveness, and schizophrenic-like symptoms, as well as the more severe physical symptoms listed above. PCP delirium can last for hours or days.
It may be difficult initially to separate PCP intoxication or delirium from other mental disorders, as symptoms may mimic depression, schizophrenia, mood disorders, conduct disorder , and antisocial personality disorder . People with PCP intoxication also have physical and psychological symptoms similar to those that occur with the use of other illicit drugs, complicating diagnosis. A complete physical and psychological history helps rule out these other conditions.
The Have I Got A Problem website is a free online resource to help people better understand any issues or concerns they may have about mental health or addiction. The website includes resources specifically focused to; general Mental Health, Depression, Stress, Anxiety, Insecurities, Self-harm Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Anger Management, Eating Disorders, Coping, general Addiction, Alcohol, Smoking, Gambling, Drugs, Cocaine, Heroin, Marijuana (Cannabis) Ecstasy, PCP, Mephedrone, Ketamine & Crystal Meth.
The site was created to give the public information to help them understand mental health and addiction issues and to assist people in making better informed decisions about their life and personal choices.
www.haveigotaproblem.com was created and is run by 'Advising Communities’, which is a UK registered charity (Charity No. 1061055)
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